BIVDA’s Head of NHS Policy David Thorne has provided a comprehensive assessment of the NHS Modernisation Bill for WA Communications.
David highlights growing concerns about the widening gap between national policy and on-the-ground delivery within the health system. While headline announcements – such as ambitions for a single patient care record – signal positive intent, there remains a lack of clarity, detail and credible implementation plans. This is compounded by inconsistent communication and ongoing organisational disruption, particularly within Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), where restructures, role changes and uncertainty are creating instability.
Most notably, David focuses on what the Bill and its implications mean for companies looking to work with the NHS. His key message is: recognise the gap between national policy and local reality, as what is announced or written should not be assumed to reflect how systems are operating in practice given significant variation across geographies and ICBs. In this uncertain environment, organisations need robust local insight, flexible strategies and scenario planning that can adapt as policy evolves.
Therefore, rather than waiting for clarity, David recommends that companies should work closely with those within the NHS who are actively shaping change. Success will depend on challenging outdated assumptions, avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches, and partnering with local leaders to help design new models of care as they emerge.
Members can read the full piece here.
